The two companies signed an agreement in which Eatoni, which specializes in designing hardware and software for keyboards, would grant RIM a license to use its technology. RIM, in return, made an equity investment in Eatoni.

Apparently, the pact is the result of a settlement agreement between the two companies over a lawsuit and counter-lawsuit related to patent infringement.

With radical developments in user interfacing technology, as showcased by the iPhone and the latest stream of smartphones, BlackBerry will be looking out for technology that provides similar flexibility to its users.